Turner County, SD
8,856 residents · 617 sq mi · 14.4/sq mi · 100% rural
About Turner County
Turner County is a county in the U.S. state of South Dakota. As of the 2020 census, the population was 8,673. Its county seat is Parker. The county was established in 1871, and was named for Dakota Territory official John W. Turner.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a rural landscape with a population density of 14.4 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 46.9°F and an average of 27.2 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for a variety of crops in USDA zone 6b. However, the region experiences cold winters with lows around 8.8°F, which may limit year-round gardening without proper planning.
Natural hazards present some challenges, with drought ranked at 78 and winter weather at 72, indicating potential difficulties in both water availability and seasonal survival. Tornadoes, hail, and ice storms also pose risks, with respective FEMA ranks of 64, 67, and 67. The county's violence percentile is at 54, suggesting average safety, and the cost of living is reasonable, with a median home price of $175,300 and effective property tax at 1.10%.
Turner County may be a good fit for those seeking a rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture, particularly for individuals who can adapt to colder winters and occasional severe weather. It may not be ideal for those reliant on urban amenities or who prefer milder climates year-round. The key trade-off lies in the potential for drought and winter weather, which could be a dealbreaker for some homesteaders looking for more stable growing conditions.